Sony

Sony has filed a patent describing tap-to-pay functionality built into PlayStation controllers, which would allow players to make payments directly from their gamepad. Beyond the patent filing itself, no product plans or launch details are known, and it is not certain the technology will ever reach commercial hardware. The idea has drawn attention as another step toward turning consoles into all-in-one commerce devices.

Sony has filed a patent for a PlayStation controller that would allow users to make credit card payments directly from the gamepad. The design, reported by Video Games Chronicle, could let players complete purchases without leaving their game. The move has drawn attention because of Sony's ongoing push into digital storefronts and in-game spending, though a patented feature does not guarantee it will reach production.